Step-Down/Step-Up DC/DC Converters (Integrated Switch), Texas Instruments This highly efficient buck-boost converter uses a single inductor for DC to DC conversion. With automatic transmission between its Step Down and Step Up functions, buck-boost converters can be employed in battery powered products that use either a two-cell and three-cell alkaline battery, a NiCd or NiMH, or a single cell Lithium battery. This makes it ideal for use with cellular phones and similar hand-held devices.